magaine of the south dakota army and air national … pack/issue 41 - winter 2016.pdf · volume 9...

WATERTOWN READINESS CENTER RENAMED IN HONOR OF GENERAL

• Airmen train with Polish forces• Flight crews hone life-saving skills

• 153rd Engineer Battalion, Forward Support Company deploy to Kuwait

• Dream of flying, service inspire pilots• Air Guard leadership visits 114th FW

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» DEPLOYMENTS

» AROUND THE GUARD

MAGAZINE OF THE SOUTH DAKOTA ARMY AND AIR NATIONAL GUARD • WINTER 2016

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V O L U M E 9 • I S S U E 4 • W I N T E R 2 0 1 6

CONTENTS

1

Maj. Gen. Timothy A. ReischThe Adjutant General

Maj. Anthony DeissDirector of Public Affairs

1st Lt. Chad CarlsonEditor

CONTRIBUTORS

Capt. Amy Rittberger Senior Master Sgt. Nancy Ausland

Sgt. 1st Class Jim Greenhill Staff Sgt. Duane Duimstra

Tech. Sgt. Luke OlsonStaff Sgt. Heather Trobee

Sgt. Mark VanGerpenSpc. Carl JohnsonSpc. Kristin Lichius

Spc. Rebecca Glidden Pfc. Alexis Stevens

Dakota Pack is a commercial enterprise publication, produced in partnership quarterly by the South Dakota National Guard and Simpsons Printing. Views and opinions expressed herein are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the Departments of the Army and Air Force or the State of South Dakota. All photos are South Dakota National Guard photos unless otherwise credited.

Distribution: Dakota Pack is published for all South Dakota National Guard service members and their families. It is distributed through Simpsons Printing under exclusive written contract with a circulation of 3,500. It is also available at http://sd.ng.mil.

How to reach us: Questions or comments for Dakota Pack should be directed to the SDNG Public Affairs Office: 2823 West Main Street, Rapid City, SD 57702, 605.737.6721, fax: 605.737.6290, [email protected].

Submissions: Print and photo submissions of general interest to members of the SDNG, their families, civilian employees, veterans and retirees are invited and encouraged. Please send article and photos with name, phone number, e-mail, complete mailing address and comments to: [email protected], 605.737.6721. Submissions are subject to editing. Electronic submissions are preferred and digital photos should be at least 300 dpi.

DAKOTA PACK Magazine of the South Dakota Army and Air National Guard

On the CoverThe Watertown Readiness Center was renamed the Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards Readiness Center, so named for the 81-year-old Watertown man who has been an educator and mentor in the community for years, and who served nearly four decades in the SDARNG.

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VISIT US ON THE WEB: sd.ng.mil FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/southdakotanationalguard FLICKR: www.flickr.com/photos/southdakotanationalguard TWITTER: twitter.com/SD_Guard INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/sdnationalguard

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FEATURES 14 Watertown Readiness Center renamed in honor of Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards 16 114th Fighter Wing Airmen train overseas with Polish forces

18 Dream of flying, serving others inspire Soldiers to become pilots

DEPARTMENTS 2 ALPHA CORNER

5 GUARD NEWS

THE GUARD STORY

7 • 153rd Battalion, Forward Support Co. deploy to Kuwait

8 • 153rd named most outstanding Army Guard unit

9 • Off-base aviation support improves community relations

9 • 114th FW receives fifth Distinguished Flying Unit Award

10 • Flight crews hone life-saving skills

11 • SD, Suriname Soldiers partner to renovate school

12 • 842nd Soldiers continue roadwork at Orman Dam

13 • Air National Guard senior leaders visit 114th Fighter Wing

18 DIVERSITY FOCUS

21 CHAPLAIN’S CORNER

Contact us for advertisingp. 605.342.0979 f. 605.342.2053email: [email protected]

tell them about how we align ourselves to our vision of being the most professional, competent and reliable National Guard organization in the United States! I am extremely proud of the way that everyone in our great organization is committed to excellence. We continually work hard to be the best and it shows. I’ve often said that every adjutant general believes that their state is the best, but we’ve got the trophies to prove it. Our mission is extremely important. We must be continually prepared to respond to the orders of the governor of South Dakota and the president of the United States. It is an honor to bear those responsibilities and we are always proud to quickly respond anytime we are called. In February, we will once again travel to Washington, D.C., to attend the ACOE awards ceremony for being among the very best in the nation at what we do. I want to thank each of you for the role you have played in this achievement. It really is a very big deal. In January, the South Dakota National Guard will send 133 Soldiers from the 235th Military Police Company and 17 Airmen from the 114th Security Forces Squadron to Washington, D.C., to help provide security for the 58th Presidential Inauguration. They will also be joined by five medical support personnel from the 109th Regional Support Group and 82nd Civil Support Team. The peaceful transition of power from one president to the next is a hallmark of our great nation, but there are people in the world who seek to disrupt this process and or to harm our elected leaders. Therefore it is prudent and necessary for the National Guard to be on hand to assist the law enforcement of the national capital region with this huge event. All 155 of our troops volunteered for this duty and they will join Soldiers and Airmen from 30 other states, territories and the District of Columbia in performing this mission. Please join me in praying for their safety as well as for the safety of every person involved in the inaugural ceremony. In closing, I once again ask for your continued support for the safety and wellbeing of all of our Soldiers and Airmen, whether serving at home or abroad. I am extremely grateful for your service to our state and nation as well as for the contributions that our families and employers make. Our state and nation are forever in your debt.

Sincerely,

Maj. Gen. Tim Reisch The Adjutant General

2D A K O T A P A C K M A G A Z I N E

ALPHA CORNER

I ’d like to begin by wishing the members of Headquarters and Forward Support Company of the 153rd Engineer Battalion a safe and secure deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. I know that

Lt. Col. Bruce and Command Sgt. Maj. DeVries have worked very hard to make sure the units are ready to go. Speaking of the 153rd, congratulations are in order for their being named the recipient of the Milton A. Reckord Trophy for being the most outstanding battalion-sized unit in the nation for an unprecedented third year in a row! Their award was presented during the annual conference of the National Guard Association of the United States in Baltimore. The 153rd was also selected to receive the Walter T. Kerwin Jr. Readiness Award for maintaining the highest overall readiness levels of any National Guard unit in the nation. That award was presented by Gen. Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Army Forces Command, during the annual conference of the Association of the United States Army in Washington, D.C. What an outstanding testament to a truly extraordinary unit! Your hard work and attention to the many details associated with unit readiness have paved the way for these very prestigious awards! Congratulations are also in order for the 114th Fighter Wing, which for the second straight year was awarded the Distinguished Flying Unit Plaque at the NGAUS Conference in Baltimore. This award goes exclusively to the five most outstanding Air National Guard flying units in the nation. Considering the fact that in 2014 the 114th was awarded the Spaatz Trophy for being the top overall flying unit in the nation, it can be easily claimed that no other flying wing in the nation is in our elite class. For the second year in a row, South Dakota units received awards in all three of the Army unit awards at the NGAUS Conference. In addition to the 153rd’s reception of the Reckord Trophy, the 82nd Civil Support Team received the General John J. Pershing Plaque for weapons marksmanship and Company C, 1-189th Aviation Regiment received the Certificate of Victory for having the highest overall figure of merit in the nation. The fact that the SDARNG can sweep all three of these national unit awards in back-to-back years is a testament to the remarkable training standards we are sustaining. I’d like to commend the 128 members of the 114th Fighter Wing who completed a month-long deployment to Poland in September. Given the tension in that part of the world, this deployment was critical from a national security perspective. This group of dedicated South Dakota National Guard Airmen gained valuable experience working with our Polish allies and by all accounts they did a terrific job. It was a huge honor for me to participate in the ceremony that officially renamed the Watertown Readiness Center in honor of retired Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards in October. Gen. Edwards dedicated almost 40 years of his life as an educator in several school districts across South Dakota culminating with not one, but two stints as superintendent of schools in Watertown. Edwards served as the 17th assistant adjutant general of the SDARNG and retired with over 37 years of service. Following his retirement, he continued to serve as a member of the Board of Military Affairs for many years. Gen. Edwards was well known for his tremendous mentoring abilities and the way he was able to bring out the best in people. I honestly cannot think of a more deserving person to honor in this manner. During the third week in October we received our site visit from the Army Communities of Excellence (ACOE) inspection team. That’s a big deal for two reasons. To begin with, the only states that receive a site visit each year are those which were ranked #1–4 following the review of the state’s packets; so this confirms a top four finish again this year. Equally important to me was the opportunity to sit down with the inspectors and

Message from the Adjutant General

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ALPHA CORNER

3

something bigger then themselves. I thought I’d use this opportunity to share some of that history with everyone else. The history of the SDARNG patch starts in 1951 when Assistant Adjutant General John Steele requested Chief Warrant Officer 4 Richard Walker and Sgt. Harold Withorne to design a patch that truly represented South Dakota. Every element of the patch is significant to the SDARNG and its history. Our state animal that is often observed in Native American tales and traditions of the Dakota Territory, the coyote, is viewed as a savvy, clever animal that is adaptable to any changing environment. They are survivors. Yellow underneath the coyote signifies the endless fields of grain harvested throughout the state. The blue background resembles resolve, flexibility and dependability — spanning from the Spanish American War to our most recent War on Terror. A yellow outline depicts the sand in North Africa where SDARNG Soldiers were among the first American troops to enter the European Theatre War in World War II. The shield represents the protection the 147th Field Artillery provided to the defense of the Allied Soldiers in World War I and World War II. The SDARNG patch is recognized around the world and is known by many different names; the coyote patch, the dog patch, or even the Dakota patch. The most important thing is that the patch is synonymous with excellence. Units from the SDARNG have been deployed in support of almost every conflict from the Spanish American War to the present conflicts in Middle East and Afghanistan. Each and every time they have deployed they have serve with distinction. All members of the SDARNG are proud to uphold the long legacy of excellence set by the generations of Guardsmen and women who have come before them. They all wear the South Dakota patch with honor and pride. “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, too have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Sincerely,

Command Sgt. Maj. James Hoekman Senior Enlisted Leader


ALPHA CORNER

T he first semblance of the National Guard stood up in the Dakota Territory

on Jan. 27, 1862. Company A, Dakota Cavalry, located in Yankton, was sworn into service under the command of Capt. Nelson Miner. At the time, Yankton was known as the ‘Mother City’ of the Dakotas. The South Dakota Army National Guard has been leading the way ever since. The SDARNG’s history and lineage is something that we have started teaching our newest Soldiers during their time at the Recruit Sustainment Program. It’s important to teach these new Soldiers the history of the SDARNG to help them understand what a world class organization they are entering into. We also explain the impact the SDARNG has had around the world and within the state of South Dakota. RSP Soldiers learn that as members of the SDARNG’s dual mission, they can be activated in times of state emergency, which range from the 1972 Rapid City flood to the Wessington Springs Tornado in 2014. It’s during the third phase of four RSP phases, just before the Soldiers go to Basic Training, the RSP Soldiers are presented the SDARNG patch. During this ceremony, RSP Soldiers learn about the development of the SDARNG patch and what it means. They are also given a history of where the patch has gone around the world and why they should be honored and proud to wear the patch and be part of

Message from the Senior Enlisted Leader

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GUARD NEWS

5

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FORT MEADE – Lt. Col. Wyatt Hansen, of Spearfish, took command of the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 196th Regiment (Regional Training Institute), during an Aug. 21 ceremony at Fort Meade. Hansen assumed command from Lt. Col. Deb Bartunek, of Rapid City, who commanded the unit since September 2013. As the commander of the 1-196th, Hansen is now responsible for the planning, execution and support of the federal officer candidate

Hansen assumes command of 1st Battalion, 196th Regiment (RTI)school program and their eight subordinate OCS companies, as well as warrant officer candidate school. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to command a battalion that’s responsible for developing future National Guard leaders,” said Hansen, who has served in the National Guard for 27 years. “I’m fully conscious that a battalion command is an important assignment and I will give it my best effort.”

SIOUX FALLS – Lt. Col. LeeJay Templeton, of Pierre, took command of the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 196th Regiment (Regional Training Institute) during a ceremony Sept. 10 at the RTI in Sioux Falls. Templeton assumed command from Lt. Col. Theodore Bartunek, a Rapid City native, who served as the commander since November 2014. Branched as an engineer officer, Templeton, who also works fulltime for the Army Corp

Templeton assumes command of 2nd Battalion, 196th Regiment (RTI)of Engineers, brings a unique skillset to the traditional field artillery and transportation courses that are taught at the RTI. “I absolutely love the National Guard,” said Templeton, who has served in the organization in various positions for nearly 23 years. “I know how important the mission of 2nd Battalion is, not only to the SDARNG, but across the entire nation and I am extremely excited for the opportunity to serve as the incoming commander.”

Lt. Col. Wyatt Hansen (right)

Lt. Col. LeeJay Templeton (left)


GUARD NEWS

RAPID CITY – Lt. Col. Scott Linquist, of Rapid City, took command of the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 881st Troop Command during a Sept. 11 ceremony at Camp Rapid. Linquist, a native of Aberdeen, assumed responsibility of the Sturgis-based unit from Lt. Col. Michael Snow, of Aberdeen, who served in the position since September 2014. As commander, Linquist is now responsible for command and control, administrative, logistical and training support for the battalion’s nearly 230 Soldiers in 10 assigned units and detachments in Rapid City. “I am truly honored and excited to be selected as the 881st battalion commander,” said Linquist. “The professionalism and abilities of the Soldiers throughout the 881st Troop Command are the best in the nation, which has been proven time and again through multiple deployments and in support of our state emergencies.”

Linquist takes over 881st Troop Command

Lt. Col. Scott Linquist

PIERRE – Lt. Col. Timothy Schlotterback, of Sioux Falls, assumed command of the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 152nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, during a ceremony, Oct. 1, at the Pierre armory. Schlotterback took over command from Lt. Col. Jade Beehler, of Spencer, Iowa, who led the unit since July 2014. As commander, Schlotterback is responsible for command and control of approximately 550 Soldiers in the battalion’s seven assigned units and detachments located throughout the eastern side of the state. “I am honored and blessed to have the opportunity to be the battalion commander of the 152nd CSSB,” said Schlotterback. “The dedication, professionalism and high standards that have been established by the Soldiers in this battalion are why the South Dakota Army National Guard has a reputation of excellence nationwide.”

RAPID CITY – Maj. Anthony Deiss, of Rapid City, assumed command of the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment during a ceremony on Camp Rapid, Sept. 11. Deiss assumed command responsibilities from Capt. Eric Tobin, of Rapid City, who held the position for nearly two years. “I’m very excited and honored for this command opportunity to lead the men and women of the 129th,” said Deiss, a native of White River. “This unit has a long and proud history of service to the state and nation, and I look forward to working with these talented and professional Soldiers.” The mission of the 129th is to provide public affairs support to units across the

Deiss assumes command of 129th MPAD

Maj. Anthony Deiss

SIOUX FALLS – Command Sgt. Maj. Todd Mettler, of Hartford, assumed responsibility of the senior noncommissioned officer position in the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade during a ceremony at the Sioux Falls National Guard Armory, Sept. 10. Mettler assumed duties from Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Burgeson, of Yankton, who served in the position since 2015. “I am really honored to be given this

Schlotterback new 152nd CSSB commander

Lt. Col. Tim Schlotterback

Mettler new senior NCO in 196th MEB

Command Sgt. Maj. Todd Mettler

state and to deployed units in support of a combined, unified or joint operation. The 20 member detachment uses print and broadcast journalism to tell the story of the U.S. military and the SDARNG.

BALTIMORE – South Dakota Air and Army National Guard units continued to earn top honors for performance excellence during the 2016 National Guard Association of the United States annual conference in Baltimore, Maryland, Sept. 9-12. For the second year in a row, the Air Guard’s 114th Fighter Wing was the recipient of a Distinguished Flying Unit Plaque, which recognizes the five most outstanding Air National Guard flying units in the nation. This is the sixth time the 114th has received the honor, which was previously awarded in 1980, 1985, 1988, 2008 and 2015. For the second year in a row, units received awards in all three of the Army categories. The 153rd Engineer Battalion received the Major General Milton A. Reckord Trophy for the third straight year as the most outstanding Army National Guard battalion in the nation for achieving the highest standards in training and readiness. The 82nd Civil Support Team received the General John J. Pershing Plaque for weapons marksmanship. The unit attained the highest figure of merit (highest percentage of assigned members qualified) during annual weapons qualification firing with assigned individual weapons. Company C, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment received the Certificate of Victory for having the highest overall figure of merit in the nation. The unit was also the recipient of the Pershing Plaque last year. “The state of readiness and overall quality of our units is unmatched by any other state as evidenced by the selection for these prestigious awards,” said Maj. Gen. Tim Reisch, SDNG adjutant general. “I couldn’t be more proud of the Soldiers and Airmen of the SDNG!”

SDNG units receive national awards

opportunity,” said Mettler. “This is a great unit, and we’re going to get even better. We’re going to train harder. We’re going to take care of each other, and we’re going to do great things.” Mettler is now responsible for advising the unit commander on all aspects of the brigade’s enlisted Soldiers, providing guidance and mentorship to those Soldiers and assisting in ensuring the brigade is prepared to handle all missions it is assigned. The 196th MEB is a multifaceted unit responsible for enhancing and protecting operational and tactical freedom of action for a supported maneuver force.


THE GUARD STORY

7

153rd Engineer Battalion, FSC deploy to Kuwait

HURON – About 165 Soldiers from the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 153rd Engineer Battalion and its Forward Support Company were honored during a deployment ceremony on Veterans Day in Huron. Hundreds of family members, friends and community supporters gathered at the Huron Arena to bid the Soldiers farewell and Godspeed as the units departs for a nine-month deployment to Kuwait. State government officials were on-hand for the ceremony as Lt. Gov. Matt Michels, U.S. Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds, U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem, and Maj. Gen. Tim Reisch, SDNG adjutant general, all addressed the Soldiers and their families, thanking them for their service and sacrifice to the nation. The mission of the Huron-based 153rd is to provide command and control of assigned or attached engineer units. The mission of the Huron- and Parkston-based FSC is to provide logistics and maintenance support. The units will report to Fort Bliss, Texas, to complete several weeks of theater-specific training prior to deployment overseas. This will be the second mobilization for the 153rd which deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004-2005. This is the first deployment for the FSC.

Spc. Josh Masek from the 153rd Engineer Battalion, poses with his family for a picture during the unit’s activation ceremony in Huron, Nov. 11.

Sgt. 1st Class Amanda Galdo is thanked by Sen. John Thune, Sen. Mike Rounds, Rep. Kristi Noem and Lt. Gov. Matt Michels during the activation ceremony of the 153rd Engineer Battalion and Forward Support Company.

Soldiers with the 153rd Engineer Battalion and Forward Support Company stand for “role call” during the units’ activation ceremony, Nov. 11, as the unit departs for a nine-month deployment to Kuwait.

Story by SDNG Public Affairs Office

(Photo by Sgt. Rachel Korzeniewski)

(Photo by Spc. Carl Johnson)

(Photo by Spc. Carl Johnson)


THE GUARD STORY

(Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jim Greenhill)

The South Dakota Army National Guard’s 153rd Engineer Battalion receives the Gen. Walter T. Kerwin, Jr. Award in recognition of being the unit with the highest level of readiness in the Army National Guard at the Maj. Gen. Robert G. Moorhead Guard/Reserve Breakfast at the opening of the 2016 Association of the U.S. Army annual meeting, Washington, D.C., Oct. 3.


WASHINGTON – The South Dakota Army National Guard’s 153rd Engineer Battalion was recognized as the most outstanding Army National Guard battalion in the nation and was presented the Gen. Walter T. Kerwin, Jr. Award at the Association of the U.S. Army annual conference in Washington, D.C., Oct. 3. The Kerwin Award recognizes the top performing Army National Guard and Army Reserve units in the country for achieving the highest standards in training and readiness. The Huron-based 153rd demonstrated excellence in operational planning, execution of training and maintaining high readiness standards above all other Army National Guard units for training year 2015. Gen. Robert B. Abrams, commanding general of U.S. Army Forces Command, presented the award to Lt. Col. Trent Bruce, 153rd battalion commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Gary DeVries. “It is truly an honor to command the Soldiers of the 153rd,” Bruce said. “The awards and accolades the unit has received, recognizing them as the very best in the nation, are a true testament to the leadership of the non-commissioned officers within the battalion and the outstanding work ethic of the Soldiers to be prepared when the nation or state may call.” The award marks the second time this year the 153rd has been recognized for excellence in training and readiness. Last month, during the National Guard Association of the United States annual conference in Baltimore, the unit was awarded the Maj. Gen. Milton A. Reckord Trophy for the third straight year as the most outstanding Army National Guard battalion in the nation. “To achieve this success, year after year, is extremely difficult, and is testimony to the environment of excellence and culture to exceed all

SD battalion named most outstanding Army Guard unit

metrics for success that have been established by the leaders of the unit, both past and present,” Bruce said. To be eligible for the award, units must achieve readiness objectives as outlined by U.S. Army Forces Command. Evaluation criteria for the award include the areas of assigned personnel strength, percentage of personnel qualified in their duty position, attendance at monthly drill weekends and annual training, individual weapons qualification and physical fitness test scores, as well as an effective maintenance program. The 153rd provides mission command and supervision for seven units with about 860 Soldiers in 12 communities throughout South Dakota. The 153rd assists assigned units in meeting training, administrative and logistical requirements to maintain the unit’s readiness in support of their state and federal missions. The Kerwin Award was first established in 1976 after the former U.S. Army vice chief of staff who served as the first commander of U.S. Army Forces Command. The command was responsible for ensuring the readiness and training of all Army units in the United States. Gen. Walter T. Kerwin, Jr. was a strong advocate of the “One Army,” or “Total Army” concept that recognized the important role of the National Guard and Army Reserve. The programs he initiated resulted in a significant improvement in the readiness of reserve components. Units under the 153rd’s command include: Headquarters and Headquarters Company of Huron; Forward Support Company of Parkston and Huron; 842nd Engineer Company of Spearfish, Belle Fourche and Sturgis, 211th Engineer Company of Madison and De Smet; 155th Engineer Company of Rapid City and Wagner; 200th Engineer Company of Pierre, Chamberlain and Mobridge; and the 927th Engineer Detachment of Huron.


THE GUARD STORY

9

Story by Staff Sgt. Duane Duimstra114th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office

SIOUX FALLS – The 114th Fighter Wing was awarded the Distinguished Flying Unit Award by the National Guard Association of the United States during the 139th NGAUS Conference in Baltimore, Maryland, Sept. 12. The award recognizes the five highest-rated Air National Guard flying units. This is the fifth time the 114th Fighter Wing has received this award. A board consisting of Air and Army directors of the National Guard Bureau selected the winners of the award. Selections are based on a wing’s overall readiness and performance throughout the calendar year. Flying safety record, aircraft operational readiness, unit manning, skill level qualifications and several other factors are used to evaluate and determine which Air National Guard units will receive the award. The 114th Fighter Wing along with Oregon and Minnesota Air National Guard units were recipients of the award for 2015.


SIOUX FALLS – Whether its fighter jets, cargo planes, or bombers, a military flyover/flyby is a sight to see. They are a military tradition that is exciting for Air Force members to participate in and also electrifying for the surprised spectators to witness. Flyovers, officially classified as off-base aviation support, are non-funeral events where military aircraft fly in formation to represent patriotic observance of that event. A flyby is an aerial salute performed as part of a funeral or memorial event, typically in memory of a fallen pilot. They are not appropriate for all occasions and there are policies and guidelines to follow before a flyover or flyby can happen.

Off-base aviation support improves community relations

Requesting one is only considered for aviation-related events or patriotic observances held in conjunction with formal observances. There are exceptions to the policy such as funerals for military members and government officials with certain accolades and community events that will require Air Force operations approval for participation and an exception-to-policy. “Air Force higher headquarters has taken over the approval process for all aerial events,” said Maj. Travis Schuring, 114th Fighter Wing executive support officer. “This includes flyovers, flyby, static displays, aerial demonstrations or parachute team performances.” When a request has been approved and all guidelines are met, the unit will work directly

with the requester on allocation of flying hours and man power to accomplish the mission. The 114th Fighter Wing recently participated in a flyover for a South Dakota State University football game and a flyby at the funeral to repatriate fallen World War II U.S. Air Force pilot, 1st Lt. Ben Barnes. Both events were successful in instilling enjoyment and increasing military support from the community. “The community had a positive reaction to the flyby,” said 1st Lt. Brendan Zubrod, 114th Operations Group pilot. “It was an honor to be a part of it and to be able to do it for the community.” Visit http://www.airshows.pa.hq.af.mil/ for more information and to request off-base aviation support.

114th FW receives fifth Distinguished Flying Unit Award

(Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jim Greenhill)

Col. Nathan Alholinna, 114th Fighter Wing commander, center, stands with (from left) Maj. Gen. Daryl Bohac, adjutant general for the Nebraska National Guard, Maj. Gen. Tim Reisch, adjutant general for the South Dakota National Guard, Lt. Gen. Scott Rice, director of the Air National Guard, and retired Maj. Gen. Philip Killey, former adjutant general for the SDNG, after receiving the Distinguished Flying Unit Award from the National Guard Association of the United States during the NGAUS Conference in Baltimore, Md., Sept. 12.

1 0D A K O T A P A C K M A G A Z I N E

THE GUARD STORY

Story and photos by Spc. Carl Johnson129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

RAPID CITY – Soldiers with Company C, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, South Dakota Army National Guard, conducted a medical evacuation training exercise near Wasta, Oct. 1, to hone their life-saving skills. The training event put HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter flight crews in realistic combat scenarios with simulated casualties to practice emergency medical care and flight operations. The Rapid City-based unit provides aerial medevac support to military forces while deployed overseas or during state domestic emergencies and natural disasters.

In order to make the training as realistic as possible, the flight crews of medics, crew chiefs and pilots were not notified of the scenario before hand. They boarded their aircraft not knowing if the mission was a real event or simulated. “It is important to make the training as close to reality as possible,” said Staff Sgt. Adam Max, non-commissioned officer in charge of the training. “We had two different missions today with three aircraft and multiple simulated injuries involved in each one. A lot goes into making that happen.” The Soldiers simulating the injured used makeup and red-dyed corn syrup to simulate wounds. During the scenario, the Soldiers screamed as though they were in pain and grasped at the medics pleading for help. One Soldier simulated a brain injury by stumbling around in a confused state. As the flight crew approached, he ran in fear and the crew was forced to restrain him. “When we are in a deployment situation, having a Soldier with a brain injury that makes him operate irrationally is a very real possibility,” said Max. Aside from preparing Soldiers for a combat zone, the training also benefits the crews for real-word emergencies here at home.

“Many times we get calls for injured hikers,” said Sgt. Courtney Tyrell, crew chief with the 189th. “The local (hospital) helicopters have to land in order to provide care. That isn’t always possible in difficult terrain.” The hospital medical evacuation helicopters are not capable of conducting hoist operations. Should the need arise, the crew is ready to help. “I work as an air EMT at the hospital as well,” said Sgt. Rachel Sirignano, flight medic with the 189th. “I get to see both sides, and I think it helps me to stay focused and prepared.” Crews from the 189th will also work side by side with local emergency response personnel during a medical emergency. To make sure things run smoothly, leadership for the unit will periodically coordinate with local authorities to conduct a joint training operation. According to Sirignano, due to the nature of medical emergencies, it is essential for the crews to be extremely well prepared. “I have to tell myself that the crew is all the injured person needs right now,” said Sirignano. “You have to stay as calm, cool and collected as you can, so that you don’t affect their condition even more by being stressed. You have to put it aside and focus on the patient.”

Soldiers of Company C, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, transport a patient to a HH-60M Black

Hawk medical evacuation helicopter via stretcher as a part of a training exercise near Wasta, Oct. 1.

Flight crews hone life-saving skills

Medics from a HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter flight crew undergo a realistic combat scenario cutting clothing off of a patient during a medical evacuation training exercise near Wasta, Oct. 1. The training event helps to hone their life-saving skills.

Story and photos by Spc. Carl Johnson129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

RAPID CITY – Soldiers with Company C, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, South Dakota Army National Guard, conducted a medical evacuation training exercise near Wasta, Oct. 1, to hone their life-saving skills. The training event put HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter flight crews in realistic combat scenarios with simulated casualties to practice emergency medical care and flight operations. The Rapid City-based unit provides aerial medevac support to military forces while deployed overseas or during state domestic emergencies and natural disasters.


THE GUARD STORY

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(Photo courtesy U.S. Embassy Paramaribo)

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Louis Du Randt, right, 211th Engineer Company, and a Suriname Army soldier conduct renovation work at the O.S. 1 Santo Dorp School in Wanica, Suriname, Aug. 11.

PARAMARIBO, Suriname – Soldiers from the South Dakota National Guard and members of Suriname’s Armed Forces partnered together to renovate some of the infrastructure at the O.S. 1 Santo Dorp School in Wanica, Suriname, Aug. 8-16. The renovation project was conducted as part of the Suriname and South Dakota State Partnership Program to provide training for military construction personnel while simultaneously assisting in a worthy community need. “Similar to other Armed Forces around the world, Suriname’s Armed Forces are engaged in humanitarian projects and is expanding its responsibilities concerning our national development,” said Lt. Col. Johnny Antonius, Suriname Ministry of Defense head of strategic planning and education. “In this respect, collaboration with the South Dakota National Guard on this particular project is of utmost importance. This form of collaboration is a win-win situation on many levels.” A team of eight Soldiers from the SDNG’s 155th Engineer Company and 211th Engineer Company worked alongside about a dozen Suriname Defense Force engineers on the renovation. Renovations consisted of tiling, door construction and installation, painting, electrical and lighting installation, sink and toilet installation, waterline plumbing, septic tank venting, drainage installation and installing a boundary fence. “The experience created a ton of training for all of us across the board,” said Warrant Officer Brandon Voss, project officer in charge of the SDNG team. “We not only had to deal with language barriers, we had to overcome different building techniques and building material. Working with the SDF helped us practice communication and compromising skills. It was a great opportunity in planning, organizing and working with the SDF and the Suriname people.”

The renovations will not only create a better learning and teaching environment, but the Surinamese soldiers and the members of the SDNG will know that their effort and hard work has made our children very happy and will set conditions for them to enjoy going to school, said Antonius. “Furthermore, Surinamese soldiers and members of the SDNG learn from each other on how they both conduct certain work related tasks and more importantly they work together as a team,” Antonius said. “After all,

Suriname Defense Force engineers along with

U.S. Army Pvt. Dominic Paulson, left, 155th Engineer Company, conduct renovation

work at the O.S. 1 Santo Dorp School in Wanica,

Suriname, Aug. 11.

SD, Suriname Soldiers partner to renovate school (Photo courtesy U.S. Embassy Paramaribo)



THE GUARD STORY

842nd Soldiers continue roadwork at Orman Dam

Soldiers of the 842nd Engineer Company work on a road project at Orman Dam and are partnering with the Bureau of Reclamation to allow for training on reclamation lands that will benefit visitors to the dam.

BELLE FOURCHE – Soldiers with the 842nd Engineer Company, South Dakota Army National Guard, of Belle Fourche, Spearfish and Sturgis, continue work on a road project at Orman Dam near Belle Fourche, Oct. 1-2. The new and improved road is expected to benefit local communities by bringing more people to the area allowing for easier access to the dam in the southeast corner and along the reservoir’s east side. Previous access to the area consisted of a network of old trails that weren’t easily accessible for the public. The SDARNG is partnering with the Bureau of Reclamation on the project, which is in year three of a five-year agreement permitting the Guard access to reclamation lands to conduct military training. The road work began in June during the Golden Coyote training exercise and included work by multiple National Guard units from other states and the Danish Home Guard. During this phase of the project, the 842nd provided stability to the road by leveling it to prevent erosion from storms. Future plans

include the construction of a cul-de-sac at the end of the road for use as a turn around point for larger vehicles and campers. “We’re doing soil reclamation and final shaping to get it all dressed up,” said Staff Sgt. Jeff Sorenson, one of the equipment section supervisors at the site. As an engineer company, the 842nd primarily consists of heavy equipment operators and works with their machinery as often as

possible to maintain their skills. “Our mission is to go out and move dirt,” said Sorenson. “Any time we get the chance to come out here and do this, it just hones our skills.” The project also provides the unit with an

opportunity to train their newer members. “This operation is a good opportunity for the younger members to gain experience and confidence in their abilities,” said Sgt. Darnell Whitte, a senior equipment operator. “We don’t get to go out and do these kinds of operations during the winter, so we use every chance in the summer to get out and actually use the equipment.”

Story and photos by Pfc. Alexis Stevens 129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

The 842nd Engineer Company’s Sgt. Darnell Whitte drives a scraper during a road construction project at Orman Dam.

that is what the partnership is all about – team work.” Santo Dorp’s principal, Sharmila Darsan, said the school is like a completely new environment and she is grateful to all who worked on the project. “A pleasant learning environment is always good for the children,” said Darsan. “It helps with better attitudes, higher grades and it motivates.” Darsan said the fence and gates also makes the children feel safe and will keep strangers from wandering into the school yard. The project first began in March, when SDNG and Suriname soldiers specializing in construction visited 14 public schools accompanied by representatives from the Suriname Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Education. The Ministry of Education chose the Santo Dorp School, which serves approximately 850 students from the local area. Pvt. Dominic Paulson, of the 155th, said he was pleased to work on the project, which gave him a satisfied feeling knowing he can contribute to a better school and learning environment for the children. “I was very happy to work on the bathrooms and complete the fence,” said Paulson. “It was a joy to see the young kids’ faces having new plumbing fixtures for washing their hands and a fence to help keep them safe.” Funding for the project was provided by U.S. Southern Command and all materials and supplies were purchased in Suriname. Since 2006, Soldiers from both countries have conducted over 100 subject matter exchanges through the program, which have benefitted men and women from both organizations to gain knowledge and experience in both military operations and civilian culture. “I have never been to Suriname before, or even outside of the U.S.,” said Pfc. Logan Foster, of the 155th. “I would definitely take the opportunity to come back to Suriname. It was a great experience!” The renovation project at Santo Dorp is just one of several construction projects that the partner nations have completed at schools and clinics throughout Suriname in the past 10 years. “The SDNG has proven to be good and trustworthy partner who is willing to assist Suriname in various humanitarian projects such as this one,” Antonius added. “We hope similar projects will be conducted throughout the next 10 years, since the schools, Surinamese soldiers and members of the SDNG look forward to these kind of activities.”


THE GUARD STORY

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SIOUX FALLS – Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, director of the Air National Guard, and Chief Master Sgt. Ronald C. Anderson, command chief master sergeant of the ANG, visited the 114th Fighter Wing for a first-hand look at what makes the South Dakota Air National Guard one of the top wings in the nation. Rice and Anderson had the opportunity to tour the base and see the modernization of the force, as well as recognize Airmen for their accomplishments. Rice assumed his position May 10 from Lt. Gen. Stanley E. Clarke, III, who retired in March 2016. A month later, Anderson assumed his position as the 12th command chief master sergeant for the Air National Guard on June 2. Rice and Anderson first met with Airmen during the unit’s annual Turkey Feed, Nov. 5, which is a holiday celebration for the unit. They had the opportunity to sit and visit with Airmen and their families in a casual setting. “It’s pretty exciting to see our communities embrace the Guard like they do here in Sioux Falls,” said Rice. The following day, Rice attended an officer’s town hall type meeting while Anderson attended an enlisted all-call. Both events allowed officers and enlisted Airmen to get to know the new leaders of the Air National Guard and what they hope to accomplish. “The reason we are here is to understand what’s important to the men and women of the SDANG,” said Anderson. “We spend a lot of time at the Pentagon making decisions about the ANG, but none of that really makes a difference unless we understand what it is that

makes our Airmen successful.” Later in the day, both attended the unit’s recognition ceremony where Airmen were acknowledged for their accomplishments, which included Community College of the Air Force recent graduates, Diamond Sharp winners, and the Airmen of the Year. “When you think of the three core values of the Air Force, this wing is a model unit that represents clearly what ‘excellence in all we do’ means,” said Rice. After addressing Airmen and helping to recognize the unit’s outstanding individuals, both were given an opportunity to tour a few locations on base and interact one-on-one with Airmen.

To conclude their visit, Rice and Anderson took the opportunity to congratulate Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Johnson, 114th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron munitions flight chief, and the unit’s newest promoted chief master sergeant after his chief induction ceremony. “My goal as the director is to visit all 90 wings in my four year tour of duty,” said Rice. “My job is to train, organize, and equip the force to generate combat capability for the president, our nation, and the Department of Defense. Sioux Falls represents one of our premiere fighter wings that provides forces and combat capability in the world of fighters with great determination and great success.”


(Photo by Tech. Sgt. Luke Olson)

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, left, Air National Guard director, and Chief Master Sgt. Ronald C. Anderson, center, ANG command chief master sergeant, visit with Airman 1st Class Jonathan Neuharth, 114th Fighter Wing, as they tour the gun shop during their visit to Sioux Falls, Nov. 6.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, Air National Guard director, addresses Airmen from the 114th Fighter Wing in Sioux Falls, Nov. 5. Rice had the

opportunity to tour the base and see the modernization of the force, as well as recognize Airmen for their accomplishments.

(Photo by Tech. Sgt. Luke Olson)

Air National Guard senior leaders visit 114th Fighter Wing


WHY WE SERVE

T he South Dakota Army National Guard officially rechristened the Watertown Readiness Center, Oct. 2. The facility’s new name is the Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards Readiness Center, so named for the 81-year-old Watertown man who has been an educator and mentor in the community

for years, and who served nearly four decades in the SDARNG. Edwards served as the 17th assistant adjutant general of the SDARNG and retired with over 37 years of service. He spent more than 39 years as an educator in South Dakota and served the majority of his career as a math teacher, coach, principal and superintendent in Watertown. “Having this beautiful facility named in ones’ honor creates a lasting tribute, and I honestly cannot think of a more deserving individual on which to bestow this honor,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Tim Reisch, adjutant general of the SDNG. Edwards attended the renaming ceremony Sunday alongside family and colleagues who described him as a capable, genuine leader whose

LASTING TRIBUTEWatertown Readiness Center renamed in honor of Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards

Story by Sgt. Mark VanGerpen196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade

(Photo by Sgt, Mark VanGerpen)

Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards and his wife, LuAnn, attend a South Dakota Army National Guard renaming ceremony for the Watertown Readiness Center, Oct. 2. The facility was renamed the Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards Readiness Center in honor of Edwards’ years of dedicated service to the SDARNG and the Watertown community.

(Photo by Staff Sgt, Heather Trobee)


WHY WE SERVE

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positive attitude inspired countless others throughout the years. “I feel very humble for this great honor,” Edwards said. “Being a member of the South Dakota Army National Guard has been a privilege. I have such great memories and have formed so many wonderful friendships during the 37 years I served. All I can say to the Soldiers, students and community members I have served with all these years is: continue to march.” Retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Donald Goldhorn, former adjutant general of the Guam National Guard, former assistant adjutant general of the SDARNG and educator in Watertown, described Edwards as “the best of the best” when it came to leadership. “Working for Ernie when he was the superintendent of the Watertown School District while I worked at the high school was an educator’s dream,” Goldhorn said. “His positive and caring attitude toward students, teachers and staff was infectious and created a school climate which probably cannot be equaled.” Also in attendance was South Dakota Lt. Gov. Matt Michels, who thanked Edwards for his service and noted how rare it is for a building in South Dakota to be named in ones’ honor. “We don’t name buildings in the state of South Dakota very often,” Michels said. “I think the reason is that it is for the greater good … that we should be remembered by our deeds and not by our names. “We are a product of people like (Edwards) who came before us. (Edwards) gave everybody a chance, and hopefully 50 years from now when people walk through here, they will be captivated by his example that we are called to serve others.” Edwards first enlisted in the SDARNG in 1957 and served as an artillery officer for most of his career until his retirement in 1994. He held nearly every key command and staff leadership position including service as a battery, battalion and brigade commander within the 147th Field Artillery. Even after his retirement, Edwards was a prominent figure within the Watertown community and served on many state and local civic organization boards that support military and veterans affairs and invest in the future of today’s youth. Edwards was also instrumental in the planning, development and implementation of the Watertown Readiness Center, which opened in the summer of 2013.

TOP: Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards, center, poses for a photo with current and former South Dakota Army and Air National Guard members and state and local government officials during the renaming ceremony of the Watertown Readiness Center in his name, Oct. 2.

MIDDLE: Attendees for the Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards Readiness Center renaming ceremony view a display case housing photos, uniform pieces and memorabilia of the former assistant adjutant general’s career in the SDARNG.

LEFT: Lt. Gov. Matt Michels addresses several hundred members of the Watertown community and the South Dakota National Guard during the Brig. Gen. Ernie Edwards Readiness Center renaming ceremony, Oct. 2, and praised Edwards for his years of service to the SDNG and Watertown community.



(Photo by Staff Sgt, Heather Trobee)


WHY WE SERVE

Four F-16 Fighting Falcons and nearly 130 Airmen from the South Dakota Air National Guard’s 114th Fighter Wing participated in a four-week bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Polish forces at Lask Air Base, Poland, in September. Members of the unit were deployed in support of

Aviation Detachment 16-4, a training exercise which aims to foster defense ties between the two countries.. “The number one goal is to assure our allies in Europe,” said Lt. Col. Quenten Esser, 114th Operations Group commander. “To show up, have a presence, do a little bit of training and build partner capacity.” The Polish have been flying the F-16 for 10 years, allowing this exercise to incorporate a wide range of flying missions. Eighty sorties were successfully flown that focused on air to air, advanced air to air, air to ground, and close air support.” While English remains the de facto standard among aviators, both National Guard and Polish service members work to recognize each other’s various terms and expressions. “The way they use their terminology might be a little bit different, so if you look at what we could be expected to do in the future, working with Joint Terminal Attack Controllers from Europe is pretty realistic,” said Esser. JTACs provide ground support to pilots by directing aircraft to designated locations to deliver close air support in a fight. The 114th FW has been deployed to many different parts of the world and glad to add Poland to its list. “The opportunity to go somewhere different is really good,” said Esser. “For years we’ve been going to the desert and the Pacific, and now we’re in the European theater. It’s incredible to see the differences. It’s good to see what our allies are like in different parts of the world, and it gives a chance to work with great people.” While the training exercise was successful, the Airmen did experience a number of challenges. “We certainly had to roll with the punches with (F-16 arrival delays) aircraft and time changing on us, but I think the fact that we were able to integrate with the Polish MiG 29s and have all of our pilots here fight them, was invaluable training.” said Col. Greg Lair, 114th Fighter Wing vice commander. “It’s a testament to maintenance [Airmen] being able to keep the airplanes flying every single day, twice a day,” he added. Col. Joel De Groot, 114th Maintenance Group commander, attributed the hard work and dedication of every maintenance technician to the success of the mission. “That’s their lives; they own that mission,” said De Groot. Lair also explained that working alongside different countries pushes

ASSURING OUR ALLIES Bilateral exercise strengthens defense ties with Polish forces

Airmen out of their comfort zones. “It’s very easy to get comfortable back home flying in our airspace,” said Lair. “You don’t always have to think too much about it, so anytime you’re able to get out of that comfort zone is good.” In a deployed environment, pilots won’t always be able to communicate with their own JTACs, so getting out of their comfort zone and learning to work with foreign JTACs is important. “Working with the Polish JTACS, yes the terminology is right out of the manual that we both use, but their inflection is different, their cadence is different,” explained Lair. Even with numerous obstacles to overcome, De Groot and Lair said the 114th FW shined with another successful deployment and valuable training. “We couldn’t have asked for a better deployment,” said De Groot. “The weather and airplanes both cooperated very well, so it was a stellar deployment as far as maintenance goes.” “One of the reasons I thought it was so important we do this is we’ve been doing wartime [and] contingency operations for some time now and it was just a good opportunity to realize there’s more out there,” said Lair. I think it’s good and invigorating and helps keep our people excited about their jobs.”

Story and photos by Capt. Amy Rittberger114th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office

Two F-16 Fighting Falcons from the South Dakota Air National Guard arrive at Lask Air Base, Poland, Sept. 19, after completing a training mission.


WHY WE SERVE

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Master Sgt. Scott Meyer, 114th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, removes a travel pod from an

F-16 Fighting Falcon after arrival at Lask Air Base, Poland, Sept. 3.

Members of the South Dakota Air National Guard, 52nd Operations Group Detachment 1, and the Polish Air Force, stand for a group photo at Lask Air Base, Poland, Sept. 22. The 114th Fighter Wing deployed nearly 130 personnel in support of Aviation Detachment 16-4.


WHY WE SERVE

HIGHER CALLING

South Dakota Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer 2 Damon Lappe knew from an early age that he wanted to be a pilot. Growing up, he dreamed of attending the Air Force Academy to fly the planes he had seen in the skies

over Ellsworth Air Force Base. Then one day, when he was 12 years old, Lappe saw several HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters fly over his house. The whirring of the blades, the stealthy shadows that swept across the ground and the sudden wind stirred his determination, and he decided he was going to do whatever it took to become a Black Hawk pilot. “I knew I wanted to fly,” said Lappe. “I always dreamed of being like Tom Cruise in “Top Gun.” Lappe wasn’t the only one who was enchanted by the idea of becoming a pilot. Capt. Brittany Pearson, who was already enlisted in the SDARNG, was approached by a Reserve Officer Training Corps recruiter. For Pearson, one conversation with an aviation officer changed her life and planted the seed that started her dream of becoming a pilot. Attending the ROTC program in college is one way to start the path to

Dream of flying, serving others inspire Soldiers to become pilots

Story by Spc. Kristin Lichius129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

South Dakota Army National Guard pilots Capt. Brittany Pearson and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Damon Lappe sit atop a HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter at the

Army Aviation Support Facility in Rapid City, Nov. 5. Pearson and Lappe are living their dream of flying and serving their state and nation in the National Guard.

(Photo by Spc. Kristin Lichius)

(Photo by Spc. Rebecca Glidden)

Capt. Brittany Pearson and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Damon Lappe are HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter pilots with the Rapid City-based Company C, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, South Dakota Army National Guard.


DIVERSITY FOCUS

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The State Army Aviation Office conducts Aviation Resource Management Boards throughout the year to identify Soldiers who are interested in pursuing opportunities as an aviation officer or warrant officer. Interested applicants should inquire below for details and prerequisites for becoming a pilot.

PREREQUISITES: Aviation packet required to prequalify for the board.• GT SCORE: (110 for both flight school or to be come a warrant officer)• Current ORB/ERB• AGE: Currently 33 without a waiver• SIFT Test: Coordinated through Specialty Branch Officer• Security Clearance: Secret required• VISION: Have you had surgery? If so, what type? May need a waiver.• FITNESS: Last four APFT scores, height and weight within standards• Current Physical Health Assessment (PHA)• Letter of Recommendation from Unit Commander• 3 Letters of Recommendation (Preferably one from a CW3/Major or

higher on ARNG flight status)• Background Check: Normally associated with security clearance• Evaluations: Last three NCOERs/OERs (if applicable)• Resume: Explain military/civilian experience• Letter to the Board: Explain why you want to be an aviation officer or warrant officer in the SDARNG and what your military career goals are• Convictions: If applicable, list all to determine waiver requirements

For questions or to schedule an interview, contact:CW4 John Schneider – Specialty Branch Officer605-737-6302 – [email protected]

becoming a South Dakota Army National Guard pilot. Lappe chose another path and attended Warrant Officer Candidate School. Once graduated, both Pearson and Lappe attended Army Aviation School to specialize in flying the Black Hawks of the Rapid City-based Company C, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment. The 189th’s primary mission is to provide aerial medical evacuation during natural disasters or emergency operations and to support U.S. military personnel in a theater of war or during peacekeeping operations. Pearson and Lappe said the unit is looking for more Soldiers for their pilot program and currently has several openings for qualified applicants. “The job requires us to have a vast amount of knowledge,” said Pearson. “It’s more than just knowing how to control the helicopter. You have to know about aerodynamics and the aircraft itself, different systems, flight rules, emergency procedures and much more.” In order to attend Army Aviation School, applicants must meet a rigorous list of requirements in order to apply. An applicant considering becoming an aviator must take several tests, including the Selection Instrument for Flight Training test, a flight physical examination, and achieve a high enough score on the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery. “When you think about a pilot, [such as] Tom Cruise in “Top Gun” – the movies never show the amount of studying, reading, hard work he would have had to do to obtain that skill,” said Lappe. “It’s an incredibly demanding job.” After almost 2 years of intense training, Pearson and Lappe were finally ready to own the sky. “Getting out and flying over the badlands, seeing the beautiful country from the cockpit is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced,” said Lappe. Although flying is their passion, both Pearson and Lappe also have demanding civilian careers. Lappe works as a police officer for the Rapid City Police Department. When he’s not fighting crime, Lappe has to ensure he makes time to meet his flight hour requirements. Between the long hours at the department and even longer flight hours, Lappe spends as much time as he can with his wife and two kids. During her time away from the flight line, Pearson works as a 7th grade school teacher. She also commits her time to coaching various middle school sports including basketball and volleyball. She spends long hours preparing lesson plans and game plays in order to make time to get her flight hours in every other week. “My students see that I can pursue my dreams and goals in different areas, and I feel like I am a good role model to them in that aspect,” said Pearson. For the 189th pilots, flying isn’t just about accomplishing a dream. The aviators play an important role serving the state of South Dakota and the nation. Often times, the Black Hawk crews are called in by the state to rescue stranded or wounded hikers. The Black Hawks are also able to fly, carrying loads of water to provide fire suppression support when forest fires break out over the Black Hills. “It’s a surreal moment,” said Pearson. “You look around you, and there’s other aircraft flying by and people constantly talking on the radios. It’s like working in a well-oiled machine.” The flight crews use the same skills they use to rescue hikers to rescue wounded service members in battle. “We are medevac, and we are there to save people’s lives,” said Pearson. “When that radio goes off, you get chills and it’s time. You know that you’re with the best crew, and you’re going to do whatever it takes to get your patients home.” Saving lives is what the 189th pilots do. It took innumerable hours, incredible amount of hard work and dedication, and many sacrifices along the way, but in the end they accomplished their dreams of becoming pilots. Whether they are out serving the community in their civilian roles, in uniform serving the state, or overseas serving the country, the 189th pilots like Pearson and Lappe are making a difference in peoples’ lives wherever they go.

PILOTS WANTED!Interested in becoming a pilot?


FAMILY FOCUS

Master Sgt. Kenneth Grunewaldt, 114th Mission Support Group 1st Sgt., and his son, Benjamin, 4, wait patiently during the unit’s Easter egg hunt to hear if he’s won a prize. The S.D. Air Guard kicked off “Purple Up! For Military Kids” week in Sioux Falls on April 7 with the activity at Joe Foss Field.

Start your Master’s, Bachelor’s or Certificate. Online.At South Dakota State University, we are dedicated to providing military members, veterans and their families the support they need to transition from military service to a college education.

SDState Online offers more than 30 online degrees taught by the same professors who teach on campus, providing you with affordable and exemplary distance-learning opportunities.


CHAPLAIN’S CORNER

2 1

B y the time you read this, we will know who is the next president of the United States. We will have said farewell to the 153rd (they activated Veterans’ Day, Nov. 11). November and December can

be joyous but also tough months for some. Here are some ideas of how to go through the holidays with a healthy perspective on life. 1. Take Care of Yourself Physically – Studies show the average American gains between 7-10 pounds through the holidays (for me it’s 50!). The holidays are months we’re least likely to keep our exercise routine because we’re busy with various different events: Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. But finding a third alternative over all or no exercise can be healthy. Commit to exercise 5-10 minutes daily if that’s all the time you have. Little amounts add up and help keep the weight from going up! But if you spend more time at the table than treadmill, remember the words of one writer – “Don’t get discouraged if you slip now and then, and eat something you know you shouldn’t have. We’re all human. If you eat something you know isn’t good for you, enjoy it without feeling guilty. You don’t have to be perfect! It’s not what you do occasionally that counts, it’s what you do consistently on a daily basis.” 2. Take Care of Yourself Mentally – One of the joys of the holidays is the chance to catch up with relatives one hasn’t seen for a while. But be alert to the fact that all of us have at least one relative that is more of a ‘discourager’ than ‘encourager.’ I’ve had family gatherings in the past where critique was given about physical appearance in regards to weight gain. There can be potentially discouraging moments during the holidays. Brace yourself with a positive attitude – “I’m going to choose to be

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Message from the State Chaplainpositive even if no one else is. I’m making improvements in my life, and I’m going to focus on the things I’m thankful I have.” And if possible, limit the amount of time you spend with those who make you feel less about yourself. You may need to see them for the holidays, but you don’t have to let them move in with you! 3. Take Care of Yourself Spiritually – My family and I recently traveled back to the parish we used to serve. When we got home, I noticed in my devotional journal, during the time of travel, I had done zero devotions. In other words, during the time where the days were long and stress was high, when I needed time with the Lord the most, I spent time with the Lord the least. Sometimes we fall into the “all or nothing” trap of thinking, “I can’t do it all, so I won’t do it at all.” A third alternative is create a new plan. During the holidays I’ll try to read one chapter of a devotional book, one chapter of the Bible or whatever is your key book according to your religious convictions. Maybe instead of praying ten minutes a day, you do it two minutes a day. Or do a ‘praise walk’ or ‘praise run’ – spend time during your exercise going through the list of things you’re thankful for. During November, our family has worked on a ‘thankful pumpkin’ (I credit my wife for the idea). At the end of each day each member of the family writes on the pumpkin one thing we’re thankful for that day. I hope and pray, and believe! – that you will have a great holiday season! But if it’s not going like you hope it should, please reach out to someone for help. Don’t suffer alone! You can make it through this season, with your sanity intact and your future bright!

Sincerely,

Col. Lynn Wilson SDNG Full-time Support Chaplain

South Dakota National Guard

2823 West Main Street

Rapid City, SD 57702

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